Stephen Downes

Knowledge, Learning, Community

This is an example I use quite a lot: the interpretation of probability. I use it to suggest that what counts as a fact depends very much on our point of view or perspective. Consider probability - consider, for example, the fact that there are 50-50 odds of heads or tails when we flip a coin. What do we mean when we say that? Is this a statement about the coin itself? Is it a statement about the universe as a whole (about, say, "all possible worlds")? Is it a statement about ourselves? As Bertrand Russell said, "Probability is the most important concept in modern science, especially as nobody has the slightest notion what it means." This article outlines six major interpretations of probability (I usually limit myself to three). None of these interpretations is wrong. None of them is right.

Today: 1056 Total: 1060 [Direct link] [Share]


Stephen Downes Stephen Downes, Casselman, Canada
stephen@downes.ca

Copyright 2024
Last Updated: Mar 28, 2024 1:23 p.m.

Canadian Flag Creative Commons License.

Force:yes